They will tell you that salary is non-negotiable.. or they can't becasue they have to maintain relativity amongst the rest of the staff in the organisation.... Even worst, some HR might even suggest that you can join the private sector if you really tink you can make it outside.. or else don't complain but still choose to work in the civil service... Even if you want to tal to minister, they will also tell you their paycut is more severe than you but they will still stay put becos no where else in private sector can they earn that kind of salary especially in these uncertain economic climates...